Kalaburagi Bandh Amplifies Farmers' Crisis Amid Flood and Rain Havoc

In a show of resistance and demand, the Kalyana Karnataka Horata Samiti orchestrated a bandh in Kalaburagi on Monday. Their calls echo the dire need for a special package and concessions following unprecedented floods and rainfalls ravaging the district. Leading the charge, farmer leader Dayanand Patil conveyed the protesters' key demands: loan waivers, monetary support from the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF), and compensation of Rs 25,000 per acre for farmers impacted by nature's fury.

Patil emphasized the gravity of the situation during his interaction with ANI, stating the widespread closure across Kalaburagi as a testament to their cause. 'We have three main demands—waiving off loans, NDRF support, and Rs 25,000 compensation per acre for farmers. While farmers face losses due to rainfall, governmental bodies remain reluctant to address these pressing issues,' he criticized. In a responsive gesture, Priyank Kharge, Minister for Rural Development and Panchayat Raj (RDPR) and the district in-charge, toured the flood-stricken regions, pledging support after consulting with affected locals.

Kharge acknowledged the damage inflicted by untimely rains, promising a thorough survey preceding compensation. 'Kalaburagi has become akin to the Malenadu region with excessive rainfalls,' Kharge noted, affirming the government's solidarity with affected farmers. As relief measures, a care center has been established for those whose properties were ravaged by the overflowing Bhima River. Kharge reassured that the district administration is on high alert and dedicated to safeguarding residents' interests, aligning with the government's relief endeavors.

(With inputs from agencies.)